When I think of July, I envision sunshine, fun, the beach and 4th of July fireworks!! It brings a smile to my face, and many fond memories! It also says to me, Freedom, probably from my school days and we had the summer “off”!

Every year we celebrate the day that signifies the official final wording and acceptance of the Declaration of Independence, on July 4, 1776. This document declared the thirteen American colonies were no longer under British rule and were free and independent states, marking the birth of the United States of America! An independent nation looking for religious freedom and political liberty. Sacrifices were made to secure Freedom for our country, freedom in life, and the values that the nation stands for.

I like words & definitions, so here we go ~

Free·dom /ˈfrēdəm/ The power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.

Most of us want ( and have) a certain level ( alot ) of freedom. Our way, on our time, how we want, when we want! Some things do control us; as in work hours, work location, maybe a boss, deadlines, and family responsibilities. The opposite of freedom is captive, restricted or controlled.

Control and freedom are often seen as opposing forces, but they can also be complementary. Control can be a means of managing fear and uncertainty, while freedom allows for personal growth and innovation. A healthy perspective recognizes what we can control; our actions, reactions, choices, and attitude, and what we can not control, which is everything else, including other people and their choices, actions and attitude.

Excessive control leads to conflict, resentment, and a lack of trust. It can also hinder personal growth, adaptability and feelings of true connection.

The “need” to control others usually comes from fear. The good news is, we can learn to adapt and to trust!

Psalm 56:3-4: "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid."

We can grow to trust God, others and ourselves ~ yay!

This verse encourages reliance on God's guidance rather than solely on our own thoughts.

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."

I encourage you to read this following verse, aloud, every day of August!

2 Timothy 1:7: ESV

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

Here are a few other translations -

2 Timothy 1:7 NIV For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7 Amplified Bible For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7 Living Bible For the Holy Spirit, God’s gift, does not want you to be afraid of people, but to be wise and strong, and to love them and enjoy being with them.

Next month, in Freedom Reigns - Part 2, we will explore areas of Freedom.

Let Freedom Reign!

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